Duracell project: A well-built bowsprit and the difficult choice of a sailboat name


After several weeks' thought, Matt builds the Duracell bowsprit, and ponders a new name for the yacht.

An ultra-reinforced bowsprit

Matt builds Duracell's new bowsprit from the dummy and calculations carried out by his architect friend. It will be built as a sandwich, with a reinforced cusaboard core. For added stiffness, Matt added pultruded carbon plates from the aeronautics industry to the upper and lower surfaces. On the starboard side, where the chain tunnel is located, additional layers of carbon are used. Matt uses a recess to maintain a smooth, attractive surface.

Once the top and sides have been glued together, he proceeds with several fiberglass laminations. He then opens the groove required for the anchor to pass through - a delicate operation, performed partly blind. Matt then closes the box.

Preparing the fittings

In today's second episode, he finalizes the piece, adding the gusset plates to the boat. For added style, he draws curves using flexible battens. Matt also adds a tube for attaching the code 0 tack with a T bone.

Finally, Matt calls on his supporters to poll them on the future christening name of the yacht. Three suggestions are submitted for comment, from the obvious Duracell to the Norwegian dugnag and Spirit of the Wood.

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